We all know that our resources are globally limited and that their prices are increasing at the same pace that used resources are thrown away and deemed useless after having served their purpose. But the life cycle of a product does not have to end there. And to be honest? It is our task to change the way we deal with things today. On the one hand as end consumers, on the other hand as businesses, from small ones like startups to big producers. And the fact that the European Commission is currently working on an EU circular economy package highlights how crucial it is to tackle the issue of waste generated every day.

To give you some figures: 600 billion euros could be economised by waste reduction, reusing and upcycling, according to the commission.

However, these changes do not magically appear out of thin air: in order to reach these goals, creative innovations and people who are neither afraid of responsibility nor of disrupting several industries are necessary.

This is where Green Alley steps in, supporting sustainable startups and eco-entrepreneurs with its network of experts in the areas of circular economy and business development. Furthermore, they have launched the Green Alley Award, Europe’s first award for sustainable and green startups in the circular economy. Green Alley is looking for innovative green ideas, new services, products and technologies that can turn waste into a resource.

The help that the Green Alley Award provides for startups and the circular economy is highly needed. Despite the opportunities it provides, the circular economy is not only regarded as complex but also as confusing thanks to many legal obligations. Green Alley helps to pave the way for startups in their quest to convince the economy about the benefits of waste management and to show that a greener future is not all about restrictions – it is about exciting new innovations.

Moreover, this year the Green Alley Award partners up with Finland in order to tap into the Finnish startup mentality. Miriam Kehl, Co-Founder of Green Alley elaborates: “Many Finnish households do a great job collecting their second-hand equipment and are therefore up at the front of the European ranking. In addition to that, Finland’s startup scene is incredibly vivid and diverse. It is worth for people to stand up and take matters into their own hands. We give them the visibility they deserve.”

The Green Alley Award finalists will be invited to a one-day event filled with workshops and live pitches in Berlin where they will meet experts in the circular economy. The winner receives up to 30,000 euros in cash and services as well as the chance to be financed by investments or crowdfunding. They will be able to work rent-free in Green Alley’s co-working space in Berlin for six months. And last but certainly not least: all finalists will benefit from the wide and unique network and learn from experts and professionals.

Entrepreneurs that are keen to tackle the global waste challenge can apply for the Green Alley Award here: www.green-alley-award.com. Do not waste time but send in your business model by July 27th.